After the US midterm rout of Trumpism, the world struggles to trust America again

For Joe Reeve, a London-based startup founder, the euphoria from the US midterm elections quickly faded. Around the world, Trump-weary individuals were stunned to learn that Americans had rejected President Donald Trump's divisive leadership, which had plunged the nation into a conflict with Iran, a stalemate in Ukraine, and soaring gas and food prices. Reeve noted that while the US democratic system allowed for such dramatic shifts, it also demonstrated America's ability to abruptly change course.

Interviews conducted by The AP worldwide revealed that a single election does not restore trust in the nation. South Korean office worker Kim So-jung emphasized that people must observe the actual actions taken by the new administration before regaining confidence. The voter turnout of 77 million Americans who elected Trump to a second term, along with his combative policies on tariffs, Israel's actions in Gaza, immigration, and Iran, had deeply shaken global trust in America.

Despite the election results, many global leaders and individuals are still grappling with the reality that Trump retains significant powers. Former German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pointed out that Trump had largely governed unilaterally for the past two years, casting doubt on whether this situation would change. Some observers speculated that Trump could distance himself entirely from Congress or escalate his unpredictable foreign policy approach.

For America's allies, the lingering question is not whether the US is back to normal but what form it will take and for how long. The midterms failed to reverse the policies that have strained economies, jeopardized livelihoods, and tarnished America's reputation worldwide. Trump's tariffs have disrupted markets, canceled aid to millions, and undermined the postwar order. Additionally, his administration's harsh immigration policies have made America seem like an undesirable destination for many.

Experts worry that reversing the tariff regime will be a significant test for the incoming Democratic majority, with their 100-day agenda promising a shift in direction. Australian beef producer Hamish McIntyre suspects that Trump will continue pursuing his broader trade agenda, even if he accepts some changes. Meanwhile, Ivan Slatkine, president of the Federation of Romandie Enterprises in Switzerland, remains cautiously optimistic that America's political institutions remain strong enough to garner some level of trust.